Culprits' anonymity a major roadblock for victims of online harm seeking justice: Study

It often leaves the survivors without a clear way to seek resolution, says non-profit group

- Syarafana Shafeeq

Anonymity remains a major roadblock for those seeking justice after facing online harms or harassment, according to a new study released on May 29.

This is one of four main issues that survivors face, said the study by SG Her Empowerment (SHE), a non-profit organisation that advocates for women, including helping victims of online harms.

The others are the long-term effects of such harms, a lack of clarity in seeking recourse, and the normalisation of online harms.

Speaking at a press conference held at the National Design Centre in Middle Road on May 29, SHE chairwoman Stefanie Yuen-Thio said she hopes the study findings will be able to inform some of the decisions made by the Government when it sets up a new agency to help victims of online harms.

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong announced in October 2024 that a new government agency will be set up to help victims of online harms. It will act on victims' behalf to deal with perpetrators and online service providers like social media platforms to enforce the swift removal of content.

SHE has tracked and studied online harms yearly since 2023, with a different focus each year. The 2025 study focuses on the impact on victims and their experiences.

It conducted in-depth interviews with 25 individuals aged between 18 and 45 who experienced harms like online sexual harassment, image-based sexual assault like revenge porn, and cyber bullying.